Gyrocopter pilot Bryan Griffiths found not guilty of manslaughter

Gyrocopter pilot Bryan Griffiths has been found not guilty of the manslaughter by gross negligence of Warwickshire hunt supporter Trevor Morse.

Mr Morse was killed instantly by the propeller blade of a gyrocopter flown by Griffiths, 55, of Bedworth, Warwickshire, in an incident at Long Marsdon airfield on 9 March 2009.

The verdict follows a two-week trial in Birmingham Crown Court, at which the presiding judge was Mrs Justice Slade.

Countryside Alliance chief executive Simon Hart commented: “This is a difficult time for Trevor Morse’s family, partner and friends. As a result of animal rights activists one man is dead and another has faced very serious criminal charges.

“If there is one outcome from the horrific events of this case it must be that the activity which led to Trevor Morse’s death is not repeated.

“It is for police forces to enforce the Hunting Act and the laws of the land.”

• To read more reaction, see next week’s issue of Horse & Hound (25 March).

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